Incident Summary
During a landing on runway 25, a tailwheel-equipped biplane experienced a sudden left turn, described by the pilot as similar to being weathercocked. The aircraft exited the left side of the runway, continued across descending terrain, and nosed over.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he was unable to determine the wind direction during his approach. He circled the airport multiple times and attempted to communicate on the common advisory traffic frequency. During the landing roll, the biplane made an unexpected turn to the left. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Conditions
The nearest METAR to the accident airport, reported around the time of the accident, indicated wind from 170° at 16 knots, gusting to 19 knots.
Aircraft Damage
The biplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the rudder.